Early mock draft for the 2024 NHL entry draft. Full First Round Mock Draft HERE.
1. San Jose Sharks- Macklin Celebrini- C – Boston University (NCAA)
6’0 190 Vancouver, B.C June 13th, 2006
The San Jose Sharks are poised to make a strategic move in the upcoming 2024 NHL draft by selecting Macklin Celebrini from Boston University with the first overall pick. Celebrini, a 17-year-old center with Boston University.
Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 190 pounds, Celebrini possesses the ideal size for an NHL center. Despite recovering from offseason shoulder surgery, he has made a remarkable comeback, leading the Terriers with eight goals and 18 points in the initial nine games of the season. His awesome play has him the consensus 1st overall pick as of now for the 2024 NHL Draft.
Notably, Celebrini’s talents extend beyond individual success, as he is recognized for making his linemates better and playing the game with finesse. Having clinched the USHL’s player of the year award at just 16 years old, he now embarks on a collegiate journey, with the potential to become a point-producing No. 1 center in the NHL, according to experts like TSN’s Bob McKenzie. The Sharks, with an eye on high-end talent, see Celebrini as a valuable addition alongside Will Smith, presenting an exciting prospect for the team’s future success. As the draft approaches, the combination of Celebrini’s skill, recovery from injury, and overall performance positions him as a strong contender for the first overall selection, reinforcing the Sharks’ decision in the upcoming draft.
2. Nashville Predators- Cole Eiserman- C- USNDTP
6’0 196 Newburyport, MA August 29th, 2006
Cole Eiserman stands out as a remarkable talent, displaying a knack that sets him apart from the rest. His exceptional skills are evident in his outstanding performance, with an impressive eight goals in just four games at the men’s U-18 World Hockey Championship. This achievement secures him the prestigious all-time U-17 American scoring record. As the tournament unfolds, Eiserman has the potential to reach the coveted all-time single-tournament record of 14 goals, a feat currently shared by hockey legends Cole Caufield and Alex Ovechkin. Notably, Eiserman’s goal tally for the year stands at an impressive 68, putting him within striking distance of surpassing Cole Caufield’s United States National Development Team single-season record of 72 goals. The stage is set for Eiserman to etch his name in the record books. Some scouts have noted his skating is an issue and he could slip due to it.
One scout called him a slower version of Phil Kessel.
3. Columbus Blue Jackets- Anton Silayev- D- Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)
6’7 207 Sarov, Russia April 11th, 2006
Some people have Silayev #1 in their draft rankings. I’m just not ready to put him there. Yet.
In the 2024 draft class, there’s a standout player named Anton Silayev. This towering defenseman seems completely at ease on the ice, showcasing impressive skills in his movements, hits, and offensive plays with both his hands and speed.
While he hasn’t fully embraced a mean streak, his regular checks and body leans are hard to ignore. Silayev is just beginning to tap into his immense potential as a prospective NHL player. NHL scouting staffs are undoubtedly considering the possibility of drafting a player with the potential to emulate the style of Zdeno Chara.
4. Edmonton Oilers- Sam Dickinson- D- London (OHL)
6’3 194 Toronto, ON June 7th, 2006
Sam Dickinson is a 6-foot-3 defenseman recognized for his strength, solid mobility, and two-way capabilities. Scouts highlight his efficient handling of the puck, good reads, and high floor. While not the most dynamic player offensively, Dickinson’s skill and poise are evident, and he is expected to show more offensive output in the upcoming season. His work ethic and compete level are consistently praised, making him a smooth and mobile two-way defender.
Elite skating and hockey IQ contribute to his effectiveness in all situations, with an anticipation of increased offensive production. Dickinson’s size, strong skating, smart puck-moving abilities, accurate shooting, and reliable defensive game make him an exciting prospect with a high ceiling for development. Scouts have compared him to Kaiden Guhle.
5. Chicago Blackhawks- Berkly Catton C- Spokane (WHL)
5’11 163 Saskatoon, SK January 14th, 2006
According to some, Berkly Catton may be considered undersized at 5-foot-11, weighing in at 163 pounds. However, his impact on the game is undeniable. A true dynamo, Catton has the ability to seize control of any situation he finds himself in. He’s relentless, never taking a shift off, and his offensive instincts are top-notch. When his team is in need, Catton steps up in a big way. His performance at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup was nothing short of impressive, with multiple clutch moments for Team Canada, including scoring eight goals.
What sets Catton apart is his proficiency in all three zones, regardless of whether he has possession of the puck. His remarkable vision and awareness enable him to maintain a high level of pace, speed, and skill on the ice.